Local Organization Hosts Event to Help Prepare Kids as they Head Back to School

The end of the Iowa State Fair marks the unofficial end to summer, and that means kids are headed back to school and a local organization is helping them get prepared.

The "Back 2 School Bash" handed out free school supplies and backpacks to more than 800 students in need.

"We`re not skimpy when it comes down to stuffing those bags," said Deidre DeJear, Chair of Back 2 School Bash Executive Board. "We make sure students have substantial school supplies in those bags to make sure they are going to be successful."

This is the 11th year for the event, which started as a school project for a group of Drake University students.

But even after graduation, organizers say their project is two-fold.

"We decided to stay. We decided to keep this event going because we love the smiles, we love the experience that people get," said DeJear. "Not only in their lives but it makes a different in our lives."

The event also hosted basketball tournaments, carnival games, and haircuts.